Honda CB500 Super Four & CBR500R FOUR Unveiled — Classic 4-Cylinder Returns with Modern Tech
Honda officially unveiled the eagerly awaited CB500 Super Four and CBR500R FOUR at the Chongqing Motor Show (CIMA 2025). The announcement marks the comeback of the iconic “Super Four” lineage following the discontinuation of the CB400SF — a return driven by strong fan demand.
CB500 Super Four — Retro Style, Modern Engineering
The CB500 Super Four blends classic Super Four styling with contemporary technology. Dressed in a nostalgic Spencer Color livery, it features a round LED headlight and a modern 5-inch full-color TFT instrument cluster that brings today’s connectivity and rider information to a retro-inspired package.
All‑new 502cc Inline‑Four Engine
At the heart of the CB500 Super Four sits a newly developed 502cc DOHC inline‑four engine. While Honda chose not to carry over the VTEC system used on earlier 400cc models, the new engine revives the classic 4‑in‑1 header styling and houses the catalytic converter under the engine. A large round-tip exhaust enhances the bike’s visual and acoustic character, echoing the legendary CB400 Four.
- All-new 502cc DOHC inline‑four
- 4‑in‑1 exhaust header with under‑engine catalytic converter
- Large round exhaust tip inspired by the CB400 Four
Cutting‑edge Electronics: E‑Clutch, Ride Modes & RoadSync
Honda equips the CB500 Super Four with a compact new E‑Clutch — smaller than the systems on the CB650R/CBR650R — combined with Throttle‑by‑Wire. The system unlocks five ride modes: Sport, Urban, Rain, plus two customizable User modes. Smartphone connectivity arrives through Honda RoadSync, enabling navigation and phone controls on the TFT display.
Chassis, Suspension & Brakes
The CB500 Super Four rides on a newly designed Steel Diamond Frame with an aluminum swingarm. Up front you'll find upside‑down (USD) forks — likely supplied by KYB — while the rear uses a monoshock with a linkage system. Braking is handled by a Nissin 4‑pot radial‑mount caliper for confident stopping power. The long, wide seat is designed to accommodate both solo and pillion riding.
CBR500R FOUR — The Sporty Sibling
At the same event Honda also introduced the CBR500R FOUR, a full‑fairing sportbike that shares the CB500’s engine and chassis but adds aggressive aerodynamic bodywork for riders seeking a more track‑focused look and feel.
Markets & Future Variants
Honda has announced the 500cc models for global markets. Industry rumors suggest Honda may offer a 400cc variant for Japan to meet local licensing and tax brackets. Southeast Asian markets such as Thailand could also see the 500cc version, which would directly compete in the busy mid‑weight segment.
Quick Highlights
- New 502cc DOHC inline‑four engine
- Retro 4‑1 exhaust styling reminiscent of the CB400 Four
- E‑Clutch + Throttle‑by‑Wire with 5 riding modes
- 5‑inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync
- USD front forks, monoshock rear, steel frame and aluminum swingarm
- Nissin 4‑pot radial front brake
The return of the Super Four line in the form of the CB500 Super Four and CBR500R FOUR blends nostalgia with modern performance and electronics. If these models launch in markets such as Thailand or Europe, expect strong interest from riders who want mid‑size four‑cylinder performance with a distinctly classic character.
